Expert: David A. NewMyer - 12/8/2008

Question
Q. when researching an airline or airport prior to applying for a job, what types of information should be obtained and why is it so important.

thanks


Answer
Hi,

When researching jobs at airlines or airports, you should ask for the following information:

1.  Any special qualfications that are required such as:
  A.  Federal Aviation Administration certificates or ratings;
  B.  Work experience requirements in that specific job with an airline or an airport;

2.  Minimum educational requirements--do they require just high school diplomas or do they want any college work?

3.  Drivers license information (how is your driving record?....you may have to drive on-airport vehicles and they may not hire you if you have more than one moving violation like a speeding ticket, etc).

4.  Other violations of the law...do you have any misdemeanor or more serious convictions, especially within the last five years?  If so, this may exclude you from certain positions because of aviation security requirements.

In general, when you work at an airline or an airport, it is normally a very responsible position and one that carries with it a lot of special requirements related to aviation safety, aviation security, and related to customer service.  So, be prepared for a position that has a lot of exciting components to it and one that has a lot of special demands that you will not necessarily see at other locations.

Best wishes,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
http://www.aviation.siu.edu